Upstairs, steam curled from the massive copper tub, enchanted rose petals floating on the surface in intricate patterns. The lavender oil had turned the water opalescent, casting gentle rainbow reflections on the walls.
Kai had outdone himself, arranging floating candles in protective circles - a habit from their earlier days when Samantha was still learning to control borrowed powers. The flames cast dancing shadows that somehow made the room feel more secure rather than ominous.
"The temperature's perfect," Kai reported to Marcus, then turned to Samantha with a soft smile. "And I added those protection runes you like around the edges."
Marcus nodded approvingly, his hand still resting possessively on Samantha's neck. "Good. Now help me take care of our girl."
